Grand Junction has been selected as the host city for the start of the 2015 'Ride the Rockies' bicycle ride which begins on June 13 with rider registration.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the ride which will cover 465 miles and ascends 40,537 vertical feet. The 2,000 riders expected to participate in the event will depart from Grand Junction on June 14 heading west over the Colorado National Monument then east on day two over the top of the Grand Mesa.

This year's route includes a trek through the Black Canyon of Gunnison, around Blue Mesa Reservoir, over the Continental Divide and through the Arkansas River Valley before cyclists arrive at their final destination in Westcliffe.

In addition to the start in Grand Junction, stops this year include Hotchkiss, Gunnison, Crested Butte, Salida and Canon City.

Organizers of the ride say host communities average about $250,000 in economic impact with riders and their support teams spending money on food, supplies, fuel and lodging. Since the first two days of the ride will be in the Grand Valley, Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade could see up to $500,000 in shared revenue.

This will be the fourth time in its 30-year history Grand Junction has hosted the start of the ride. The city also hosted in 1997, 2005 and 2010.

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